Choosing to have your wedding at a private home can provide a variety of options from schedule flexibility to the opportunity to personalize the setting and décor to your personal preferences. But don’t be misled into thinking that it is a cheap option! You are responsible for providing and/or renting everything you might need for the evening from tents to portable bathrooms, lighting, tables, chairs, etc. The list is extensive. Jaime and Nathan were married at their family home in Brownstown this fall. It was incredibly well done! When I commented about the beautiful décor to Jaime’s Mom, she said it was the work of many friends! And that is the key to a private home wedding; many hands make for light work.

The wedding was held on the front lawn where church pews were set up for guests giving a “church” feel to the ceremony officiated by Pastor Sean Ewbank. An alter was fabricated from tree branches and a chandelier along with a beautiful swag, created by florist Joe Wotasik of Exquisite Designs, provided the finishing touches. The couple chose “Stand By Me” for the bridesmaids and groomsmen. Not only appropriate for the situation, the song displayed the couples good humor. Jamie processed to the well know Etta James song “At Last” and the couple recessed to “Viva la Vida” by Coldplay.

We played cocktails in the tent while Ray’s Prime Meats set up dinner and tempted us with their amazing smells. Birch Photography was on hand to capture all the great moments and also provided the photo booth. DJ Crashers took over for us and got the guests on their feet. With all the love and support so evident that evening, the newlyweds are certainly off to a great start.